The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has announced that it now receives more than 450 complaints of domestic violence each month. This revelation was made by the Executive Secretary of the agency, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, during a stakeholders’ engagement and technical training session on the Lagos Emergency Responder Management System, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Ikeja on Tuesday, May 19.
Agency Records Significant Number of Cases
Vivour-Adeniyi stated that the agency records between 400 and 450 new domestic violence cases monthly through its toll-free hotline, social media channels, and other online reporting platforms. She noted that while these figures are significant, they likely represent only a fraction of actual cases, as domestic and sexual violence continues to be widely under-reported both in Lagos and globally.
“We know we’ve not scratched the surface because these issues remain some of the most under-reported crimes, not just in Lagos or Nigeria, but globally. But we are encouraged that more people now have faith in the system,” she said.
Increased Awareness Encourages Reporting
According to her, increased public awareness has encouraged more victims to seek help through emergency lines, agency offices, and digital reporting channels. She added that the agency operates a 24-hour virtual referral and response system for gender-based violence cases in collaboration with emergency responders and the state Command and Control Centre.
“The idea is to ensure that regardless of the time or day, anybody who calls the 203 line can access critical services such as emergency response and psychosocial support,” she said.
DSVA's Role and Legal Framework
Vivour-Adeniyi explained that the DSVA was established to coordinate responses to domestic and sexual violence cases across Lagos State, stressing that such violence is not limited to physical abuse alone. She noted that the state’s Protection Against Domestic Violence Law also recognizes emotional and verbal abuse as forms of domestic violence.
“We continue to increase awareness and let people know they should not die in silence. The fact that the abuse is not physical does not make it less harmful,” she added.
Warning Against Concealing Abuse
The agency chief also cautioned parents against concealing cases of sexual abuse involving children, warning that such actions amount to obstruction of justice. She referenced legal provisions that criminalize the concealment of sexual offenses, stating that offenders could face up to three years imprisonment.
Vivour-Adeniyi urged parents and guardians to make use of available support systems to ensure victims receive protection, care, and access to justice.
